7 ways to maximize space and functionality in your kitchen

Our guide to efficient and accessible kitchen design

The kitchen is one of the most commonly-remodeled areas of the home — at least in our experience. On average, we redo 10-15 kitchens each year as well as design ones from scratch in new homes, so we consider ourselves experts in the design of cook spaces. In kitchen projects especially, every inch matters, so we work to stretch each and every one of them.

Maximizing space and function is always a goal, but it’s particularly important in homes that are designed for accessibility and future aging-in-place. Ensuring that a kitchen can comfortably accommodate people with wheelchairs or walkers, for example, helps ensure the home will function for years to come. Let’s explore 7 ways we design functional, accessible kitchens for our clients.

Open floor plans with plenty of maneuvering room

Just as with doorways and hallways, the kitchen should have enough room to pass through easily whether on-foot or via wheelchair or walker. Allow for a 60-inch turning radius somewhere in the kitchen, and make sure there’s clearance for doors and drawers to open — plus enough room for them to be accessed easily.

Variety of work stations

A standard countertop height in a kitchen is 36 inches from the floor, but for a person in a wheelchair that’s too high and not ergonomic. Wheelchair-accessible countertops should be 34 inches high. These 2 inches make a big difference. Consider varying countertop heights or using multi-height counters that are adjustable and can adapt with your needs over time. Adding pull-out or moveable work stations also allows anyone to find a comfortable place to work.

Smooth and low-luster countertops

Smooth surface countertops allow objects to move easily and make clean up easier too. Counter surfaces should also be low-luster (subtle, smooth sheen) to reduce glare and distraction for people with low vision. Rounded corners prevent injuries and create flexibility in how cooks move through the kitchen.

Raised toe kicks

To accommodate wheelchair users, raise the toe kick (the recessed area at the bottom of base cabinets that allows you to stand closer to the countertop without hitting your toes) from 4” to 9”. Using floating cabinets or cabinets on legs is another option to allow wheelchair users more flexibility because there is clearance for the “feet” of the wheelchair.

Accessible storage solutions

Cabinet storage should be easily accessible, especially for people with more limited range of motion. Pull-out shelving and drawer storage allows people to see everything in the cabinet without needing to bend or get down on the floor. Cabinet and drawer pulls should be easy to grip — or better yet, replace pulls with magnetic push hardware.

Easily reachable appliances

Consider where controls are located on the range or cooktop to promote intuitive, easy, and safe use. Operating the controls should not require reaching over hot burners. Wall ovens can be installed at a height to accommodate use by individuals in wheelchairs if needed, and side-by-side refrigerator-freezers offer equal access to cold and frozen foods without needing to bend down. Microwaves and dishwashers can also be adapted to improve accessibility. If using a conventional microwave, consider mounting at or below counter height. Dishwashers can also be easily mounted higher than normal to limit having to bend over while loading and unloading.

Variety in lighting sources

Natural lighting, general lighting, and task lighting are important to consider to create a functional and comfortable kitchen environment. Place brighter lighting above task areas for ease of use and clean up. Consider the color of the light and use contrast to denote change in surfaces, and select low-luster finishes to reduce glare.

The kitchen is one of the most complex spaces in the home to design, partly because it’s one of the spaces where home accidents tend to occur as we age. But, it’s arguably also one of the most rewarding spaces to create since it’s a place where people gather and make memories. The good news: intentional design that accounts for aging-in-place and the maximization of space can make the kitchen safe and delightful.

Are you re-thinking your existing kitchen, or dreaming about a new one? Let’s chat.